Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX16822BASA+T

Overview

MAX16822BASA+T from Maxim Integrated is a step-down constant-current high-brightness LED driver with integrated 65V/0.85Ω MOSFET, high-side current sensing, and 2MHz hysteretic control. It delivers up to 500mA output current (at ≤+105°C), ±3% LED current accuracy using a 1% sense resistor, and supports PWM and analog dimming for automotive RCL/DRL and architectural lighting.

For engineers reviewing the MAX16822BASA+T datasheet, MAX16822BASA+T pinout, MAX16822BASA+T application, or MAX16822BASA+T equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, real-world design meaning of key specs, validated pin functions, application-specific implementation guidance, and two confirmed alternative parts with documented functional and thermal differences.

Technical Context

The MAX16822BASA+T uses hysteretic current-mode control with programmable upper/lower sense thresholds (VSNSHI = 218–236mV, VSNSLO = 166–180mV), enabling fast transient response and input supply rejection without external compensation. Its internal 65V DMOS switch and high-side sensing architecture eliminate low-side ground disruption in LED string configurations.

Thermal management integrates dual protection: analog thermal-foldback via TEMP_I (25µA bias, 2.0V threshold) for gradual LED current reduction, and hard thermal shutdown at +165°C with 10°C hysteresis. The device operates across -40°C to +125°C with UVLO activation at 6.0–6.5V and 500mV hysteresis.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 8-pin SO (SOIC-8, package code S8-2), RoHS-compliant, -40°C to +125°C operating range.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED driver applications.

Compared with MAX16822AASA+T, the MAX16822BASA+T trades lower current ripple for higher efficiency at elevated input voltages, while LM3409QMYX/NOPB provides greater flexibility in current scaling and frequency tuning at the cost of increased component count and no native thermal foldback.

Availability

MAX16822BASA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive lighting, architectural LED fixtures, and industrial indicator panels requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and AEC-Q100-aligned reliability.

Supply support for MAX16822BASA+T includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Maxim Integrated, now part of Analog Devices, designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for automotive, industrial, and communications markets.

The MAX16822 family targets cost-sensitive, high-reliability LED lighting systems - specifically engineered to replace discrete buck controllers + MOSFETs in 6.5–65V input applications with minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the maximum LED string voltage supported by the MAX16822BASA+T?

The MAX16822BASA+T does not regulate output voltage directly; it regulates current through the LED string. The maximum sustainable LED string voltage equals VIN minus the forward drop across RSENSE and the LX MOSFET's RDSON × ILED. With VIN = +65V, RSENSE = 0.62Ω, and ILED = 500mA, the usable LED string voltage is approximately 64.5V - sufficient for 18–20 white LEDs (3.4V each) at 500mA.

How does the MAX16822BASA+T implement thermal foldback without external components?

The MAX16822BASA+T implements thermal foldback using its TEMP_I pin, which sources a precise 25–28µA current. When an NTC thermistor is connected between TEMP_I and GND, rising temperature lowers the thermistor resistance, reducing the TEMP_I voltage. When that voltage falls below the internal 2.0V threshold, the MAX16822BASA+T linearly reduces LED current per the formula ILED = ILED(MAX) × (1 − (2.0V − VTEMP_I) × 0.75), eliminating need for op-amps or ADCs.

Can the MAX16822BASA+T be used with PWM dimming frequencies above 1kHz?

Yes, the MAX16822BASA+T supports PWM dimming up to 20kHz, as confirmed by typical operating characteristics showing clean 200mA LED current waveforms at 20kHz with 90% duty cycle. The DIM pin has 200ns turn-on delay and logic thresholds (VIH = 2.8V, VIL = 0.6V) compatible with standard MCU GPIO outputs, enabling flicker-free dimming in human-viewable applications.

What is the difference between GND and PGND pins on the MAX16822BASA+T?

GND is the analog reference ground for internal comparators, bandgap, and TEMP_I biasing; PGND is the high-current power ground return for the LX switch and LED string. Separating them prevents switching noise from modulating the current-sense comparator threshold. Layout best practice requires connecting GND and PGND at a single star point near the device, with the input capacitor's ground tied to PGND and the TEMP_I bypass cap's ground tied to GND.

Does the MAX16822BASA+T require an external freewheeling diode, and what specifications are critical?

Yes, the MAX16822BASA+T requires an external Schottky freewheeling diode connected from LX to the LED cathode. Critical specs include: reverse breakdown voltage ≥ VIN(max) + 20% (e.g., ≥78V for 65V input), forward voltage < 0.5V at 500mA, and reverse recovery time < 50ns. A 100V/1A Schottky (e.g., STPS1H100) meets these requirements and minimizes conduction loss and EMI.